Harte: Train refs through umpiring

Tyrone football boss Mickey Harte has called on GAA chiefs to train young referees by using them as umpires in championship games.

Harte believes this practice would help emerging whistle-blowers gain experience and improve officiating standards. He argues that current umpires are "too static" and there needs to be greater communication between them and the men in the middle.

"I believe this is a missed opportunity for budding young referees. If they were afforded this opportunity to officiate they would gain invaluable experience of the big match atmosphere without the pressure.

"They would also have the opportunity to engage with top officials like Pat McEnaney and ask questions before and after their match performances.

"This could only be of benefit to the novice officials and would go a long way towards ensuring continuity of good practice in refereeing.

"Indeed, having served as an active umpire and linesman would help the next generation of referees to establish a more meaningful rapport with their support officials.

"It’s arguable that the current custodians are often too static. It has become abundantly clear, even in the early stages of this year’s championship, that the days of casually standing by the post and lifting the appropriate flag or outstretching the arms no longer satisfies the needs of this often controversial role.

"With live television and multiple camera angles, much more is demanded of these officials than was previously the case. In the modern game, there is much more reason for contact between the umpires and the referee."

For the full story, see www.irishexaminer.ie